Microsoft Is Planning To Remove VBScript From Windows Permanently HTMD Blog

Microsoft is Planning to Remove VBScript from Windows permanently from future versions of Windows. Do you know VBScript is a programming language that came with Internet Explorer? After being used for 30 years, Microsoft is getting ready to stop using VBScript in future versions of Windows slowly.

You will have the option to use VBScript before it’s completely removed from the operating system. Microsoft plans to make it available on request (on-demand feature). This way, you can continue using it until it’s eventually phased out.

The IE browser is already retired from mainstream versions of the Windows operating system. It’s important to understand that Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge is still supported. This includes the Internet Explorer platform (MSHTML/Trident), WebOC, and COM automation.

VBScript, Visual Basic Script, or Microsoft Visual Basic Scripting Edition is a programming language. It’s similar to Visual Basic and Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). It first came out nearly 30 years ago, back in August 1996.

What is VBScript?

VBScript, short for Visual Basic Script, is a programming language developed by Microsoft. It was primarily used for scripting tasks in Windows environments.

Why is Microsoft Discontinuing VBScript in Windows?

Microsoft is stopping the use of VBScript to enhance security and prevent the delivery of malware. Malicious actors have exploited VBScript to distribute harmful software.

When will VBScript be Removed from Windows?

The exact timeline hasn’t been specified, but it’s part of Microsoft’s plan for future Windows releases.

Microsoft is Planning to Remove VBScript from Windows Permanently

VBScript, which was bundled with Internet Explorer (though it was discontinued on specific Windows 10 versions earlier this year), is closely integrated with Windows. It communicates with host applications through Windows Script, enhancing the functionality of various programs.

Feature	Details and Mitigation	Deprecation Announced
VBScript	VBScript is being deprecated. In future releases of Windows, VBScript will be available as a feature on-demand before its removal from the operating system.	October 2023

Microsoft is Planning to Remove VBScript from Windows Permanently – Table 1

Microsoft is Planning to Remove VBScript from Windows Permanently - Fig.1 - Creds to MS — Microsoft is Planning to Remove VBScript from Windows Permanently – Fig.1 – Creds to MS

VBScript in Windows

Microsoft’s decision to phase out VBScript holds significant importance regarding security. This move aims to strengthen the safety of Windows systems by eliminating a potential vulnerability that malicious actors could exploit. By discontinuing VBScript, Microsoft is taking a proactive step towards safeguarding users from potential security risks associated with this scripting language.

Deprecation of VBScript – Microsoft is stopping the use of VBScript.
Feature on Demand – In future Windows releases, VBScript will be offered as an optional feature that users can choose to install.
Preinstalled Initially – VBScript will come preinstalled to allow for uninterrupted use.
Scheduled Removal – VBScript will be removed entirely from the operating system.
Transition Recommendation – Users are encouraged to transition to more modern and secure Windows-supported scripting languages.
Security Enhancement – This move aims to enhance security and prevent malware delivery.
Integration with Internet Explorer – VBScript was bundled with Internet Explorer, but Internet Explorer itself has been discontinued on some Windows 10 platforms.
Integration with Windows – VBScript integrates active scripting into Windows environments, enabling communication with host applications through Windows Script.
Start menu > Settings app > Apps > Optional Features

Microsoft is Planning to Remove VBScript from Windows Permanently - Fig.2 — Microsoft is Planning to Remove VBScript from Windows Permanently – Fig.2

Add an Optional Feature

In Windows 11, a notable addition to the Settings app is the “Add an Optional Features.” This feature allows users to customize their Windows experience by choosing which additional functionalities and tools they want to install or enable.

Microsoft is Planning to Remove VBScript from Windows Permanently - Fig.3 — Microsoft is Planning to Remove VBScript from Windows Permanently – Fig.3

Microsoft’s Move and Attack Vector Elimination

VBScript, a type of computer code, is being phased out. This means it’s being slowly replaced and won’t be used anymore. One important thing to know is that this change is making it harder for hackers to attack Windows computers using a standard method.

Importance of the Retirement of VBScript

In 2018, Microsoft took steps to defend against attacks using VBA macros. However, this led cybercriminals to use VBScript to spread malware like DarkGate, Lokibot, Qbot, Emotet, and other malicious software.

This shift highlights the importance of Microsoft’s decision to phase out VBScript. It’s a move towards a safer Windows environment.

Deprecated features in the Windows client – What’s new in Windows | Microsoft Learn

Author

About the Author – Vidya is a computer enthusiast. She is here to share quick tips and tricks with Windows 11 or Windows 10 users. She loves writing on Windows 11 and related technologies. She is also keen to find solutions and write about day-to-day tech problems.